Oasis star Bonehead reveals he has been diagnosed with cancer
The guitar legend, real name Paul Arthurs, said he will be taking a 'planned break' from the Live ’25 reunion tour
Oasis guitarist Paul 'Bonehead' Arthurs has announced that he's undergoing treatment for prostate cancer.
The legendary musician, who is one of the founding members of the Manchester-born band alongside Liam and Noel, revealed he had been diagnosed with the disease earlier this year.
In a statement shared to social media on Friday (3 October), he explained he would be taking a 'planned break' from the Live ’25 reunion tour as he heads into the 'next phase' of his treatment.
Arthurs, 60, explained: "Early this year I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. The good news is I'm responding really well to treatment, which meant I could be part of this incredible tour.
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"Now, I am having to take a planned break for the next phase of my care, so I'll be missing the gigs in Seoul, Tokyo, Melbourne and Sydney.
"I'm really sad to be missing these shows but l'm feeling good and will be back ready to go in time for South America."
He told supporters that he will return to the stage with the Gallagher brothers in November, while wishing those who are attending gigs this month an 'amazing time'.
Noel previously told the crowd at a gig in Wales that Bonehead was the reason behind his highly anticipated reunion with Liam, saying: "If it wasn't for him, none of this would have happened."
Arthurs' post was flooded with messages of support from both music stars and fans, who wished him well as he embarks on the next phase of his cancer treatment.
One person said: "I love you, Bonehead! Take it easy and focus on getting better. Wishing you all the best!"
Another wrote: "All the best buddy! Your contribution to the tour so far has been stellar," while a third commented: "Wishing you a healthy recovery!"
Oasis also shared a message on social media in response, as the band said in a post on X: "Wishing you all the best with your treatment Bonehead – we’ll see you back on stage in South America."
Back in 2022, Arthurs shared a similar announcement, which explained he would be unable to perform alongside Liam at a spate of shows as he had been diagnosed with tonsil cancer.
A few months later, he told fans that he had received the 'all clear' in a statement shared on Instagram, while adding: "Thank you so much all of you for the messages I’ve had throughout, you’ve helped me more than you know.”
Bonehead has been a part of Oasis from the very beginning and became known for his skills as the band's rhythm guitarist, a role he held until his departure in 1999.
His departure came ten years ahead of Noel's dramatic exit, which ultimately spelt the end of the Brit group...but that's all in the past now.
Former Oasis members Gem Archer, Andy Bell and Joey Waronker have also been lending the lads a hand on their Live ’25 tour over the last few months. The band currently have 13 shows left.
All the best, Bonehead.
Olivia Burke